Monday, September 23, 2013Thoughts on GM Jeff Ireland's extension
By James Walker

The Miami Dolphins extended general manager Jeff Ireland’s contract through at least 2014, a source told Adam Beasley of the Miami Herald on Monday. The move happened in the offseason, according to the report.

Here are some thoughts on the extension:

The timing of the news is interesting. This is as good a time as any to get word out on the extension. Ireland has been an unpopular figure in Miami for years, but his image is coming around after a 3-0 start. If this move was announced when it happened, that likely would have garnered a bad reaction from Dolphins fans.

The extension shows how much confidence owner Stephen Ross has in Ireland. The Dolphins were 7-9 last year, and Ross still made the move. Ross also opened his wallet this offseason to allow Ireland to spend more than $200 million in contracts this offseason. The two have a good relationship that involves trust on both sides.

Miami’s fast start all but ends any talk of Ireland on the hot seat. The team is winning and Ireland's moves this offseason are panning out. Free agents such as receiver Mike Wallace, linebacker Dannell Ellerbe and cornerback Brent Grimes are all major contributors to the Dolphins staying undefeated. Draft picks such as defensive end Dion Jordan, tight end Dion Sims, kicker Caleb Sturgis and cornerback Don Jones are also making plays early.